2025 New Heights 17u National Team Player Profiles
New Heights is a sports-based youth development organization that creates opportunities for youth to rise to their potential on the basketball court, in the classroom and in their communities. Their mission is to educate and empower promising underserved youth to be leaders, champions and student-athletes by developing the skills necessary for success in high school, college and life.
The coaches and educators are positive role models who guide youth through adolescence and into young adulthood, and motivate them to develop the social, behavioral, academic and athletic assets necessary for maintaining physical and mental health throughout their lives.
The 2025 17u New Heights 16u National team is coached by Nazareth Regional High varsity coach Gary Ervin, New Heights Director Adam Berkowitz and former professional player Delroy James. They play on the addias 3SSB circuit, and their roster is as below.
Alan Shi (2025) 6’11 forward, Brookline High (MA) - A physical big who is a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the floor, making a significant impact with his versatile skill set. His high energy and relentless motor set him apart, as he consistently brings intensity to every aspect of the game. Chi utilizes his strength effectively, creating challenges for opponents in both scoring and defending situations.
Alonzo Archbold (2026) 6’8 small forward, Curtis High - 2024-25 NYC Prospects All PSAL 4A Second Team. Leading scorer in Brooklyn/Staten Island PSAL division. Archbold is a tough, tenacious defender who consistently challenges his opponents, making it difficult for them to get easy looks. With solid size and athleticism, he’s able to match up with players of various positions and shut down offensive threats. On the offensive end, he shows impressive finishing ability, able to convert in the paint despite contact. A player to keep an eye on, Archbold’s well-rounded game and relentless work ethic make him a rising star.
Chris Birden Jr. (2026) 6’10 small forward, South Kent School (CT) - Birden is an ultra athletic player who also shoots the three at a high percentage. He handles the ball well in transition and plays with speed and explosiveness at the rim. He is exceptional on the defensive side of the ball because he is capable of guarding 1-5. He is extremely long, moves his feet well and has excellent instincts. Projected SEC, AAC, ACC, etc
Deron “Ron Ron” Rippey Jr. (2026) 6’1 point guard, Blair Academy (NJ) - A five star recruit considered one of the best point guard prospects in the nation. 2025 New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year. 2025 Pitt Jam Fest All Tournament First Team. Twitchy and with a tight handle, Rippey is impossible to stay in front of. Having added lethal deep ball shooting, he can’t be schemed against. Has received multiple D1 offers, including North Carolina, Alabama, Virginia, Washington and Georgia.
Derrick Morton Rivera (2026) 6’4 shooting guard, Father Judge High (PA)
Jaden Brown (2026) 6’3 shooting guard, Bergen Catholic High (NJ) -
Kamsi Awaka 6’9 forward, Cheshire Academy (CT) - #4 ranked player in New England by Prep Hoops. Awaka stands out with an imposing physical presence and a set of intangibles. He is known for his formidable paint presence. He excels in blocking shots and finishing plays with remarkable power and has the physical upside to be a force to be reckoned with on the defensive end. Awaka possesses the raw talent, natural athleticism plus physical attributes. He has a soft touch, great hands, versatile defender and rim protector. Ultimately a HM talent, currently has received multiple D1 offers, including Deep South Champion and NCAA tournament team,
High Point University, Rhode Island and Iona. 3.8 gpa
Markus Maxwell-Grimes (2026) 6’2 guard, Suffield Academy (CT) - #95 ranked player in New England per Prep Hoops. All Western New England Preps Defensive Team. A rising prospect that gets downhill with ease and consistently finishes at the rim. A good ball handler with excellent shooting range. Plays hard - led the team in offensive rebounds from the guard position last year. Length, instincts, and athleticism make him a strong defender. A threat to steal when playing on the ball or off. Rapidly improving and big potential. 3.1 gpa
Trey Lewis (2026) 6’3 shooting guard, Bergen Catholic High (NJ) - A confident shot maker, Lewis’ downhill attacking aggression helps him generate paint touches, puts pressure on the rim protectors and consistently getting to the free throw line. He also knocks down mid-range pull ups and threes. point range.